Jonathan Simon Named CEO of blc TEXTILES
The former Standard Textile executive will lead the company following its recent acquisition by 1888 Mills and Sapphire USA.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in People
blc TEXTILES has appointed Jonathan Simon as its new Chief Executive Officer. This leadership change follows the 2025 acquisition of the company and Cambodian Textiles Worldwide by 1888 Mills and Sapphire USA LLC.
Why it matters
The company aims to leverage its new ownership structure and manufacturing presence in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Cambodia to improve product offerings and supply reliability. Simon's appointment is designed to solidify these operational goals.
Jonathan Simon brings decades of experience, including 37 years dedicated to building 1888 Mills. The firm operates manufacturing subsidiaries in Cambodia alongside broader operations in Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The players
Jonathan Simon
He is the newly appointed CEO of blc TEXTILES and a veteran industry executive who previously served as an executive at Standard Textile.
blc TEXTILES
This is a textile company that recently underwent a majority stake acquisition by 1888 Mills and Sapphire USA LLC.
1888 Mills
This is a textile manufacturing company that acquired a majority interest in blc TEXTILES in 2025.
Sapphire USA LLC
This firm is a primary investor that participated in the 2025 acquisition of blc TEXTILES.
Standard Textile
This is a major global textile manufacturer where Jonathan Simon most recently served as Executive Vice President of Global Growth & Strategy.
The details
Simon joins the firm after most recently serving as Executive Vice President of Global Growth & Strategy at Standard Textile. He previously held the roles of President and CEO at 1888 Mills for 15 years.
Timeline
1989: Jonathan Simon began his tenure at 1888 Mills.
2005: Simon assumed the roles of President and CEO at 1888 Mills.
2020: Simon concluded his leadership role at 1888 Mills.
2025: 1888 Mills and Sapphire USA LLC acquired a majority stake in blc TEXTILES.
September 24, 2026: blc TEXTILES announced the appointment of Jonathan Simon as CEO.
Market Landscape
The leadership change reflects the broader industry consolidation occurring as firms integrate manufacturing assets across global hubs like Pakistan and Cambodia. This appointment positions the company to better compete by aligning executive experience with a newly expanded supply chain.
Customers of the company can expect potential changes to product availability as the firm integrates its new global manufacturing assets. These adjustments to the supply chain are intended to improve the reliability and breadth of offerings provided to clients.
The takeaway
The appointment signals a strategic pivot toward utilizing global manufacturing capacity to streamline service for clients. Industry veterans often play a pivotal role in navigating the complexities of post-acquisition operational integration.
Further reading
For more information on executive changes and career developments, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Textile World.
